Challenges to Deductive Arguments

Question 1

Who did Gaunilo critique?

Answer 1

Anselm

Question 2

What did he say regarding Anselm’s methodology?

Answer 2

There was no specific fault with the argument but argued that there was “reductio ad absurdum” at play

Question 3

What analogy did Gaunilo use?

Answer 3

Perfect Island analogy

Question 4

Why do some say that the Perfect Island analogy can be critiqued?

Answer 4

Due to the poor comparison of an island to a metaphysical being

Question 5

Who was Kant critiquing?

Answer 5

Descartes

Question 6

What did he say regarding existence?

Answer 6

He said that you cannot say that existence is a quality due to the fact you either lack or possess it.

Question 7

How does this add into God?

Answer 7

Existence cannot add to the intrinsic essence of God.

Question 8

What was there confusion on?

Answer 8

On a greater existing God over a non-existent one where existence is not a matter of possessing but it is a concept to exist to something in the world.

Question 9

Therefore, what is a difference between God existing and not?

Answer 9

It is not qualitatively identical